Château Musar: A Lebanese Winemaking Legacy
Discover Château Musar in Ghazir: a historic Lebanese winery producing world-renowned, organic wines with a unique winemaking legacy.
Château Musar, a name synonymous with Lebanese winemaking, stands as a beacon of tradition and resilience in Ghazir, a town north of Beirut. Founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar, the winery's history is deeply intertwined with Lebanon's past, having weathered wars and economic challenges to emerge as a globally recognized producer of exceptional wines. The winery's location in Ghazir offers a glimpse into traditional Lebanese architecture and hospitality. While the vineyards themselves are primarily located in the Bekaa Valley, the winery and cellars in Ghazir are open for tours and tastings by appointment. Here, visitors can explore the historic cellars carved into the mountainside, providing ideal conditions for aging. Musar's wines are celebrated for their unique character, reflecting the terroir of the Bekaa Valley. The flagship Château Musar Red is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Carignan, while the white is a blend of Obaideh and Merwah, ancient Lebanese grape varieties. The winemaking approach is non-interventionist, with natural fermentation and minimal use of sulfites, resulting in wines that are both complex and age-worthy. A visit to Château Musar offers a journey through time, showcasing Lebanon's winemaking heritage and the Hochar family's unwavering commitment to quality.
Local tips
- Book your tour and tasting in advance, as visits are by appointment only.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cellars, which are carved into the mountainside.
- Consider visiting Awad Ice Cream near the Ghazir exit for a taste of traditional Arabic ice cream.
- Explore the old souk in Ghazir for a glimpse into traditional Lebanese life.
A brief summary to Château Musar
- Mzar Street, Ghazir, LB
- +9619925127
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-12 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From Beirut, take the highway north towards Jounieh. Continue past Jounieh, and look for the Ghazir exit. Follow the signs to Ghazir. Once in Ghazir, follow the road towards Mzar Street; Château Musar is located there. Parking is available on site.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Beirut. A taxi from Beirut to Château Musar in Ghazir will cost approximately $20-30 USD, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare before you begin your trip.
